Plymouth man headbutted partner on Christmas Day

A MAN headbutted his partner during a drunken Christmas Day row, a court heard.

Michael Westward left the woman bleeding heavily from her face, Plymouth magistrates were told.

The 34-year-old, of Efford Walk, admitted assaulting his partner by beating.

Michael French, for the Crown Prosecution Service, said the pair had been in a relationship for five years.

But he added Westward, who appeared from custody, had a previous conviction for assaulting the same woman.

Mr French said he had been drinking through the day as the couple visited relatives. They started arguing and the row continued after they returned home, he said.

Mr French said Westward headbutted the lady to the face, causing her to bleed heavily – and paramedics were called.

Mr French said there was evidence the woman pushed and kicked Westward.

Magistrates adjourned sentence so a probation officer can prepare a report on his background. Westward was released on conditional bail until January 21. He must not contact the woman nor go within 100 yards of her address in North Hill.